Why I Addressed Religious Violence In Nigeria — Nicki Minaj

American rapper Nicki Minaj has explained why she chose to publicly address the alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria, pointing to her personal connection to the country and reports of violent attacks on worshippers.

Minaj spoke on the issue during a surprise appearance at AmericaFest on Sunday, where she responded to a question from Erika Kirk, the widow of late conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

According to Minaj, her concern stems from long-standing ties to Nigeria, revealing that her pastor is Nigerian and that she has many Nigerian fans.

“Nigeria is a place I’ve always loved. Someone very dear to me, my pastor, is Nigerian, and I have lots of Nigerian barbs,” Minaj said. “Hearing that people are being kidnapped in church, killed and brutalised simply because of their religion should spark outrage.”

She stressed that she would no longer remain silent about religious persecution, declaring that Christians around the world deserve protection and a voice.

“We are not backing down anymore. We will not be silenced by bullies. We will speak up for Christians wherever they are in this world,” she stated.

Minaj also highlighted the importance of religious freedom, noting that many people take the right to worship freely for granted.

“There are people in this world right now who cannot worship God as they please or where they please,” she said. “When we pray together, we must remember those who are hiding just to worship and pray for them.”

The rapper has previously raised concerns about Nigeria. On November 1, she reacted to a post shared by former United States President Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform, in which he claimed that Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria.

Reacting to the post, Minaj expressed gratitude for the freedom to worship in the United States and said no group should ever be persecuted for practising their religion.

Minaj also made headlines last month for raising concerns about the treatment of Christians in Nigeria during a collaboration with US Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz.